Sol Campbell will make his Newcastle debut tomorrow, with boss Chris Hughton convinced he can keep playing for years.

The former England and Arsenal star was set to retire in the summer, and even planned his marriage in the middle of pre-season training, fearing his career might be over.

But Campbell, who turned 36 at the weekend, has completed a pre-season programme with Newcastle's physiotherapists and is ready to return to action against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, fighting fit again.

Hughton is hoping Campbell, who he coached as a kid at Spurs, will prove a key recruit, citing his impact during 12 appearances at Arsenal last season.

The United boss, who will make big changes by bringing in senior stars who need a game, said: "It is a good game for Sol to start. Chelsea away. He has great experience and has been a big influence around the place. The only disappointment is we signed him so late.

"Now he is up to speed. He is a confident player and never doubts his ability. He can certainly go on longer than just this season. He is fortunate not to have suffered any serious injuries. You look at players like David Weir, playing to their 40s and realise that Sol can go on.

"I didn't need persuading to sign him. When someone who has played 12 games at Arsenal becomes available, and you see where they are compared to where we are, he must be doing something right."

With Steve Harper likely to be out for several months with his shoulder ligament injury, Newcastle have given a vote of confidence to Tim Krul.

The Dutch keeper will be given an extended run in the team and the chance to make the No1 jersey his own. Newcastle have ruled out any move for Manchester City keeper Shay Given who will leave Eastlands in January.

Given, who gave Newcastle 12 years excellent service, infuriated the hierarchy by virtually going on strike to force his move away from St James's Park and will not be welcomed back by those in senior positions.

Hughton says Krul is well equipped to take over from Harper. He added: We are devastated for Steve. He was the best keeper in the Championship last season. Tim is ready. He is 22 which is not particularly young. He has the ability and won't be phased. He'll go into it with no fear.

"Tim is a keeper of top quality and he, along with Fraiser Forster who is on loan at Celtic, would have been knocking on the door anyway."

Hughton has hit out at the tackle by James Beckford that crocked Harper.

He blasted: "Was it malicious, no. But Harper was favourite to get the ball and it was a challenge that need not have been made. He caught Harper considerably, hence the injury. On another occasion it would not have been a surprise to see a red card."